Manatees Across Space Coast Huddle Up in Warmer Water Sites, Need Water Temps of 68 or Higher to Survive

manatees gather in springs, power plant discharge areas and other warmer waters

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — Sweater weather is upon us here on the Space Coast. As you sit snuggled in your favorite fleece, ever wonder how wildlife copes with cold snaps? 

If you’re a manatee, you need access to water temperatures of 68 or higher to survive, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Many manatees across the state are huddled up in springs, power plant discharge areas, and other warmer-water sites, often only leaving briefly to find food before returning to the safety of the warm water.

How you can help manatees during this arctic front?

● Mind your manatee manners and give ‘em space. Manatees may congregate in large numbers in warm-water sites — it’s an incredible sight to see, but please admire all manatees from a distance to keep from disturbing them.
● Watch for manatees when out on the water — go slow, look below, and follow all posted manatee protection zones.
● Manatees exposed to water temps below 68 oF over a prolonged time can develop cold stress, a potentially life-threatening condition —

If you spot an injured, sick, orphaned, or dead manatee, please call our Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) right away so that trained experts can respond.

For manatee viewing guidelines, CLICK HERE.

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